This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

Washington School Students Take a Journey Through Science

Washington Elementary School PTO sponsored a Science Fair

Students at Washington Elementary School explored the solar system, studied static electricity, and observed tiny organisms through microscopes at the Washington School Science Fair on March 13.

Event coordinator and parent Ginger Clarke-Walden said, “Every year, we have a Washington School show that raises a lot of money. The science fair is a nice way to give back to the school community.”

With over 25 booths, students had the opportunity to participate in a large variety of fun activities, from measuring how much iron is in breakfast cereal to studying the stars in the sky. Other stations taught students about DNA, radioactivity, insects, minerals, computers, dentistry, and germs.

Find out what's happening in Westfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

At check-in, students received a passport that would guide them on a scientific journey through the many fields of science. After completing the activity at each booth, students could get their passport stamped. Once they received seven stamps, students could collect a prize at the reward table.

“[The Science Fair] is a fantastic experience and the turnout was amazing. The kids are so excited, and it’s a great way for them to learn,” said parent and volunteer Liz Mulholland.

Find out what's happening in Westfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

One of the most “hi-tech” stations was the StarLab, a portable planetarium where students could see actual stars, planets, and constellations in outer space. Said fifth grade Science Teacher Matt Cognetti, "(We) wanted to make sure that (the kids) were able to experience activities that they do not have an opportunity to in school such as working with microscopes and telescopes."

The fair was a free event organized by the PTO and the school’s recently-founded science committee. “The best part of the night was getting parents involved,” said Clarke-Walden.

According to Cognetti, the last Washington School Science Fair was six years ago, but he hopes that it will become an annual event.

Said Cognetti, “The goal was to have the community come together and have a fun night learning about science. It was also an opportunity for parents to share their amazing talents with the students. I am constantly impressed with how great the parents are at Washington - they are so willing to share their time and talents!”

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?